Automatic Identification System

Novel technologies are playing a key role in ship navigation as they support
those in command of a ship. BSH, whose tasks include the testing of navigational
and radiocommunications equipment in Germany, operates a testing laboratory
which type-tested and approved the first shipborne AIS system worldwide prior
to series production. AIS (Universal Shipborne Automatic Identification System)
is a system providing ships on a real-time basis with latest information about
the identity, voyage data, and manoeuvres of other ships which are also equipped
with this system. AIS also opens up new possibilities of traffic control because
Vessel Traffic Services can obtain information from the AIS land stations.

Since July 2002, it has been mandatory for all new ships to carry AIS. In
the meantime, the deadline for fitting older ships with the system has been
advanced from 2008 to 2004. The BSH's internationally recognized laboratory
is testing the ability of AIS prototypes to communicate with each other, irrespective
of equipment type and manufacturer, and investigates whether AIS can be integrated
into radar systems and ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System).
By type-testing and approving novel equipment, BSH enables manufacturers to
start marketing their newly developed products. Manufacturers from Japan, South
Africa, Norway, Sweden, and Russia are having their systems tested at the BSH.

AIS Base-stations

AIS-Base-stations are not installed on board of a vessel, so
there will not an
assessment of conformity in accordance with the "Schiffsausrüstungsrichtlinie"
be carried out.After successful type testing the BSH certify with an "Statement
of Conformity" the performance with the relevant standards of the
type tested AIS-Base station.

List (ZIP-file, 213 KB, only in german) of the life-saving appliances, navigational and radiocommunications equipment.
Please see also the detailed explanations provided with the list.

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